Cold Patch Might Fix Small Leak On Boat Floor

BOATING - SHIPSHAPE

April 6, 1995|By Larry Hutt, Sentinel Correspondent

QUESTION: I own an Avon soft-bottom inflatable boat. The boat has given excellent service during the years. Unfortunately, it has developed a leak in the floor. I can't find anybody to fix the problem. Is this fixable?

ANSWER: This sounds like something that can be repaired. If only a small area is involved, a cold patch process might be used. If all the floor is in question, it may be better to replace the complete section. Contact Avon Marine, 4740 126th Ave., Clearwater, Fla. 347622; or call (813) 571-3616.

Rust is a problem for boater's clamps

Q: I bought some stainless steel hose clamps. These are the type that have a screw to tighten them. The screws have corroded. Are there stainless clamps that do not rust?

A: Yes. I would guess that you purchased your clamps from an automotive or hardware supply. The band that wraps around the hose is stainless, but the screw is made of plated steel. Clamps that are sold in marine supply stores are all stainless and do not corrode.

Guidelines to help you change your propeller

Q: I carry a spare propeller for my outboard engine. What is involved in changing to my spare if I should damage the original?

A: Your owners manual will have information on how to do this. The nut that retains the propeller is secured with a locking tab washer or a cotter key. Once the locking feature is removed the nut unscrews.

To protect your hands from the blades, wedge a piece of wood between the propeller and the lower unit housing. This will keep the propeller from turning and make the task much easier.

A large thick washer will be at the base of the propeller. Sometimes this will stick to the back of the propeller. Make sure to place it back on the shaft.

Practice changing your propeller at home or in shallow water. Make sure the engine ignition is off and the boat is in neutral.

Boat is left on trailer how will hull fare?

Q: Will leaving my boat on a trailer for a long time damage the hull? I had a friend say that his boat was in storage and never felt right afterward.

A: Properly adjusted trailers will support the hull and no damage will occur. Trailer supports should go fully to the transom and rollers should be at the proper heights.

If the trailer does not support the hull properly, the hull can ''hook.'' This means the bottom of the boat is no longer straight. This shape will make the bow plow, which lowers performance.